Then and Now, Michigan-Superior

The opening of the Michigan Avenue Bridge in 1921 began the transformation of a nondescript little street into a busy commercial thoroughfare. Though slated for demolition when the avenue was widened, the Water Tower had survived. The Palmolive Building dominated the neighborhood.

In our time North Michigan Avenue has been “Manhattanized.” The Palmolive Building is dwarfed by newer, taller structures. And anyone who might suggest tearing down the Water Tower would be demonized on social media.